word to some friend in need
of cheer, who knew that she could be found at her daily hour of
welcome.

The custom of receiving on a certain day of the week is a sensible and
hospitable one. If one has such an "At Home" day, it is more polite
for friends to call on that day than on any other. If a lady has,
however, sent out cards announcing that she is "At Home" on
"Wednesdays in January and February," one should not call on those
days unless one has received the card having the special invitation.

Some receive once a month during the season. They have the day
engraved on their card, as "The first Friday until Lent," or "The
second Wednesday until April."

The custom of sending out cards for a certain day throughout one month
avoids a "crush" on any one day, and enables a hostess to receive
informally without giving up a great part of her time.

The informal entertainment is a greater compliment to guests than any
formal entertainment, however splendid.

The hostess should preserve the happy medium between neglecting and
overattending to her guests.

When a hostess wishes to have her friends meet an expected guest, she
should inform them of the intended visit beforehand, and so enable
them to make an engagement to meet her, or plan entertainment for her.
Invitations to a reception in honor of a friend can well be, and
should be, sent out in advance of her coming, if her stay is to be
short, and if the dates of her stay are definitely known.

At a reception for the introduction of a friend, the hostess and the
guest of honor will stand near the door of the drawing-room and
receive. If the reception is very large, the butler announces the
names of the guests as they enter. The hostess gives her hand to the
newcomer, and presents her to the guest of honor. After a few words of
greeting, the caller passes on into the room where the refreshments
are served.

The refreshments usually consist of dainty sandwiches, salads, perhaps
creamed oysters or chicken, bouillon, chocolate, coffee, or lemonade.

Afternoon teas are less formal and less elaborate than receptions. The
refreshments consist of tea, with thin slices of bread and butter,
thin biscuits, and cake.

At a dancing party the hostess receives, together with her daughters
and any guests whom she honors by asking. The host may receive, as
well, but his chief duty is to keep a watchful eye upon his guests,
looking out for the chaperons, and seeing that the you